Soft Cheese Taco from Taco Cabana features warm, soft tortillas filled with melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, topped with fresh shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes, delivering a creamy, savory delight wrapped in a tender, foldable shell.
Equipments
- Stove or flat-top griddle
- Saucepan
- Cheese grater
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Spatula
- Ladle
- Serving tray or plate
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 soft flour tortillas (6-inch)
- 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
Use freshly shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese for the best melting texture and flavor in your Soft Cheese Taco. Soft flour tortillas should be warmed on a stove or griddle to ensure they become tender and fold easily without cracking. Crisp iceberg lettuce and ripe diced tomatoes add a refreshing crunch and balance the creamy, melted cheese. Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents, as they can affect the smooth melt. Your Soft Cheese Taco from Taco Cabana copycat menu will capture the authentic taste and creamy texture of the original when you follow these ingredient tips.
Instructions
- Shred cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese using a cheese grater.
- Wash, dry, and shred iceberg lettuce with a knife on a cutting board.
- Wash and dice tomatoes.
- Preheat stove or flat-top griddle to medium heat.
- Warm flour tortillas on the griddle or in a saucepan for about 10–15 seconds per side, using tongs or a spatula, until soft and pliable.
- Mix shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese in a mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle an even layer of mixed cheese onto one half of each warm tortilla.
- Fold tortillas over the cheese.
- Place folded tortillas back on the griddle or in a clean saucepan.
- Heat until cheese melts, about 1–2 minutes per side, flipping with a spatula as needed.
- Remove from heat and open each taco carefully.
- Top the melted cheese inside each taco with shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes using a ladle or spoon.
- Place finished tacos on a serving tray or plate.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Soft Cheese Taco from Taco Cabana copycat menu replicates the creamy blend of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese wrapped in soft flour tortillas, topped with crisp lettuce and fresh diced tomatoes for a satisfying taco experience. If you don't have Monterey Jack cheese, you can substitute it with mozzarella or a mild white cheese to maintain a similar texture and flavor. When melting the cheese, use low heat on your stove or griddle to prevent burning and ensure even melting. Your soft tortillas can be warmed in a dry skillet or wrapped in a damp paper towel and microwaved briefly for a tender, pliable shell. For an extra burst of freshness, consider adding a squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of cilantro atop the taco before serving.
Tips
Ensure the tortillas are warmed until soft and pliable to prevent cracking when folding, which preserves the creamy texture inside. Use a cheese grater to shred the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly for consistent melting. Heat the folded tortillas on medium to melt the cheese thoroughly without burning the tortilla shell. You should add the shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes after melting to maintain their fresh, crisp texture.
Nutritions
Soft Cheese Tacos from Taco Cabana provide a good source of calcium and protein, primarily derived from the melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Your meal also offers vitamins and fiber from the fresh shredded iceberg lettuce and diced tomatoes, contributing to digestive health. The soft flour tortillas add carbohydrates for energy, making this dish balanced for a light yet satisfying option. Enjoying these tacos can support your daily calcium intake while delivering a creamy, savory flavor experience.
Storage
Store leftover Soft Cheese Tacos by wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil or placing them in an airtight container to retain moisture and prevent dryness. Refrigerate within two hours of preparation and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness. Reheat gently on a stove or griddle to restore cheese meltiness and tortilla softness before enjoying your meal.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the iceberg lettuce with shredded romaine or butter lettuce for a different texture and slightly different flavor profile. Instead of warming the tortillas on a griddle, try briefly steaming them in a covered pan to make them softer and easier to fold. If you prefer a spicier taco, add a layer of sliced jalapenos or a drizzle of hot sauce before folding the tortilla over the cheese. For a richer taste, experiment with mixing in cream cheese or queso fresco into the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese blend.
Allergies
Soft Cheese Taco from Taco Cabana contains dairy ingredients, specifically cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The soft flour tortillas include gluten, posing a risk to those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. Your allergy considerations should include checking for dairy and gluten sensitivities before consuming this dish.
Why this recipe?
Soft Cheese Taco from Taco Cabana is loved for its creamy, melted cheese perfectly blending with seasoned, tender taco meat wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla, creating a comforting and flavorful bite. The rich combination of textures and savory ingredients offers a unique twist compared to traditional hard shell tacos, making it a favorite among Taco Cabana fans. Crafting your own copycat version allows you to customize the cheese, spice level, and freshness to suit your taste while capturing the essence of this beloved menu item. Your homemade Soft Cheese Taco can bring the restaurant experience to your kitchen, satisfying cravings with authentic flavors.